f you’re seeking summer adventure
in recreation, sports or leisure, look
no further than the Lakes District.
The name describes it well, with
more than 3,000 miles of outdoor
water recreation opportunities in the
Lakes District. From Burns Lake - the
‘Heart of the Lakes District’ - outdoor
adventurers can seek recreation
within the smallest and the largest
lakes in British Columbia, as our
area has them both.
The lakes offer plenty of ¿shing and
boating opportunities. You can water
ski, sailboard, or powerboat on most
lakes, and many of our smaller
bodies of water are excellent for
canoeing and kayaking. Burns Lake,
with its many bays, islands, and
hidden inlets, is perfect for paddling.
The Lakes District has many other
outdoor activities for those that prefer
to have both feet on the ground and
out of water. There are more than
two dozen recreation sites and
hiking trails throughout the region, as
well as mountain bike trails on Boer
Mountain. Walking trails within the
village include two of the areas’ most
popular, Eveneshen and Rod Reid
trails. It’s a perfect way to unwind
after a long day on the road.
There is a variety of wildlife that you
may see during your travels through
the Lakes District. The area has healthy populations of deer,
bear, and moose, and it is a favourite resting place for migratory
birds - all of which make it popular with photographers and
hunters alike.
Of course, a holiday in the Lakes District would not be complete
without a visit to B.C.’s smallest Provincial Park Deadman’s
Island in Burns Lake or one of its largest protected areas
Tweedsmuir Park. Burns Lake is the gateway to both parks,
which offer travelers a unique recreational experience that
won’t soon be forgotten.
A perfect place to stay during your visit is at our FREE
campground at the Burns Lake Spirit Square right on the
Lake. A children’s playground, modern washrooms, beach
and covered picnic areas will enhance you lakeside camping
experience.
The Lakes District has something for everyone and every
year the list of outdoor recreation activities keeps growing.
Our local merchants can provide visitors with all the goods

and services they will need after a long day in our “great
outdoors”. You will ¿nd the small town atmosphere of Burns
Lake warm and friendly, too. - and its residents eager to
please.

Page 4

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Burns Lake & Lakes District Map of Area
Augier Lake
Day Lake

Pinkut Lake
Bulkley Lake
Division Lake

Taltapin Lake
Maxan Lake

Decker Lake

Burns Lake

Tchesinkut Lake

Francois Lake

Mollice Lake

Uncha Lake
Takysie Lake
Binta Lake

Wapoose Lake
Knapp Lake

Ootsa Lake

Cheslatta Lake

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Page 5

Locally Owned & Operated BVCU returned over 3/4 of a million
dollars to our members and local
communities in the past year.
Where ever you travel there is a
credit union close by!
Lakes District Branch
Hwy. 16 Lakeview Mall, Burns Lake B.C.
Phone: 250-692-7761 • infolakes@bvcu.com
Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:30am - 5:00pm
Friday 10:00am - 6:00pm

Church Directory:
Island Gospel Fellowship 250-692-7551
Grassy Plains Gospel Church 250-694-3329
Immaculata Catholic Church 250-692-3568
The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-Day Saints 250-695-6316
Decker Lake Mennonite Church 250-692-7057
St. Paul’s United Church 250-692-7202
Burns Lake Community Church 250-692-7949
First Mennonite Church 250-692-3259
Burns Lake Pentecostal Church 250-692-7464
Seventh Day Adventist Church Group 250-694-3745

heavy equipm
ent on the
sides.
road
He also
warned local
dents to
resistay
verts, rivers away from cullocal area and streams in the
caused by due to the hazard
of the fast the unpredictability
flowing water.
"We were
not expecti
to be this
ng it
proactive. bad, but we were
by Rebec
We
ca Billar
sions about had held discusd
what to
event of
Lakes District
excessive do in the
Maintenance once we
rainfall and
(LDM) crews
had all three
were kept
last week
busy [snow pack, rainfall elements
when persiste
peratures]
rainfall coupled
, high temnt
with
the Ministrwe are required
snow pack
by
and warm a heavy increas
y of
tures caused
temperae our patrolTransport to
flooding
frequency,"
local area.
in the Gailing said.
"Just because
Steve Gailing
the rain
tions manage LDM's opera- subsided
has
doesn't
r said
water flow
may still
mean the
be to comethe worst
we will still will diminis
peratures
h,
are set to as tem- particul
have high
this week.
increase
water,
arly
increased because there are
"We receive
temperatures
d
dicted. Water
warning
prelast Tuesdaa rainfall
flows are
materialize.
y that did to increas
going
e, before
bined with This rain, com- crease," Gailing
they dewarm tempera
added.
and snow
Decker
tures
levels still
Lake
residents
high elevatio
present at George and
Bernice
sive floodin ns results in mas- know all to well
Hart
g," Gailing
rising water
the effects
Large volume
said.
can
gushed through s of water recently fertilize have. Their
local rivers, was 50 per cent d wheat field
creeks and
more water reservoirs forcing an overflowing flooded due to
CN culvert.
down through
Bernice
culverts
said
the
than
dle, resultin they could han- flooded like "It has never
this before."
g
While there
Crews werein flooding.
is some
damage
Babine Road forced to close to two of the Hart's
said they
last Tuesda
fields, she
to floodin
will still
y due
g
be able to
Highway in three areas, but produce hay this
Wet'suwewet'enyear.
despite a 16 remained open
large volume
ter crossin
of wa- tion's band office First Nag the
at Palling
was also
LDM crews road.
inundated
ing in respons were out work- ter. The
with wabasement
and flaggin e to the flooding and band
flooded
members
ensuring g contractors were remove
worked to
public
trolling traffic. safety by con- from the computers and files
office
The Village last Tuesday.
Water crossed
west of Decker the highway have opened of Burns Lake
up a level
near the Burns Lake Road and emergency operatio
one
Lake Airport
at the village
ns centre
LDM worked
.
Municipal office.
to minimi
the floodin
ze
storm drains
ment and g with heavy equip- operating at
are
sandbags.
Saul Creek full capacity and
was also
is flowing
used to stopFilter cloth capacit
dirtying streams
at high
sediment
y.
.
Residents
Because
living in
of the sheer
gional District
ume of water,
the ReGailing said vol- Nechak
of
no crew
that 320-33 o should contactBulkley
members
water, but
entered
1-800rather worked the bc.ca 39 or go to www.rd
for updated
bn. Last week’s
with on
information
evacuations.
water levels heavy rain couple
d with warm
across Hutterin Burns Lake
weathe
rose so
Road last
Tuesday much that the r and melting snow
Rebecca
parking
evening
Billard/La
resulted
lot at
closing the
ura Blackwell
photos
road. More Radley Beach in flash flooding.
flooded.
pictures
(Below) (Above) The
on page
Water gushed
11.

KENNEY DAM: Located 96 kilometres south of Vanderhoof. An awe-inspiring
mountain of rock, gravel and clay, as high as St. Paul’s Cathedral of Egypt. The Kenney
Dam measures 457 metres in width and 99 metres high. The downstream face of the
dam is a spectacular sight of falls dropping 100 metres – greater than the height of a
32-storey building. The surface area of the reservoir is 910 square kilometres.

SKINS LAKE SPILLWAY CAMPGROUND: For those of you who enjoy camping
and are looking for serene escape. This campground offers 20 campsites, covered cook
house for picnics, outhouses, cold water taps, boat-launch and is free of charge. The
campsite is a short walk to the Skin’s Lake Spillway – a spectacular view of the water
making its way down to the Nechako River.

andy’s Resort is located on beautiful
Francois Lake, BC.
Francois Lake is situated in the geographical center of beautiful British Columbia. At
110 kms (68 miles), it is the second longest
natural lake in the province. This pristine
lake is located 30 kms (19 miles) south of
Burns Lake. Francois Lake is cold and
deep - some reports reaching as much as
1000 feet. The lake provides excellent ¿shing for rainbow trout and char (lake trout).
Once you have turned on to Hwy. #35,
south of Burns Lake, drive pass the ferry
landing for 6 kms on Colleymount Road you can’t miss us on the left.
This beautiful lake front resort has full hook
ups for any size RV, cabins and lots of
space for tenting.
Also available is boat rentals, boat launch,
¿shing licenses and bait. For your convenience there
is a small store with lots of amenities available for the
traveller. Sandy’s Resort also offers an in campsite

¿shing derby for all their guest third weekend in July.
Chris and Sheila your hosts - invite you out to spend
a great summer at Sandy’s Resort.

See us for all your ﬁshing tackle or camping
gear before you head out to the lakes!
B

efore you head out ¿shing or
camping make sure you stop
by Burns Lake Home Hardware.
You will ¿nd an abundance of
supplies that you will need for
camping and ¿shing. We
carry a variety of
¿shing tackle
and also
fishing
licences.
N e e d
camping
gear?
Well you
h a v e
come
to the

B u r n s
L a k e
H o m e
Hardware
also carries a wide line
of RV supplies which includes
holding tank treatment, trailer and
marine hoses and clamps, motor
and transmission oil and a full line
of cleaners for
maintaining
your RV.
B u r n s
Lake Home
Hardware
is
locally
owned and
operated
and the friendly

staff will be happy to help you
make your holiday travel a little
better.

right
place
the
shelves are stocked full
of everything you need
for camping like portable
propane heaters, stoves
and
lanterns.
You
will also ¿nd a wide
selection of cookware,
folding chairs, tents and
coolers.

Convenience & selection for the traveller or ﬁsherman
:
We have • Fishing tackle

For a holiday of ﬁshing, hunting or relaxing make it the Noralee Resort on Francois Lake
A

beautiful site on Francois Lake to
relax in one of our cabins, or bring
your RV. We have a restaurant open
from 8:00am to 8:00pm everyday
for those days you don’t feel like
cooking and a store with the supplies
you forgot.
Eight cabins, all have
kitchens and bathrooms. All bedding,
dishes etc. supplied. We also have
full hookup and no hook up campsites,
a boat launch and dock. The ¿sh are
biting, hunting is great or just come for
a peaceful and relaxing get away.

Check out our website www.
noraleeresort.com or phone to book
a cabin or campsite.
Highway 35, south of Burns Lake
takes you to Francois Lake. One of the
purest water sources in BC, Francois
Lake has plenty of rainbow trout,
kokanee, Dolly Varden and char. This
is sport ¿shing at its ¿nest, with prize
winning, trophy ¿sh.
Pack your camera and be ready to
snap pictures of the wildlife. Eagles
and ospreys are plentiful. Bears,
moose and deer wander freely.
The Lakes District offers many
recreational activities. Relax boating,
¿shing, sailing and canoeing. Go
hiking, backroad exploring, rock
hounding, bird watching, fossil looking
and hunting.
• Camping right on the beach!
• RV sites with hook-ups and without.
• Cabins with kitchens, sleep 4 to 6,
heated for winter use.
• Excellent ¿shing, boat launch/ dock.
• Ice ¿shing in the winter.
• Restaurant and cabins open all year
7 days a week except Christmas
and New Years.
For a holiday of relaxation and ¿shing,
make it the Noralee Resort and
Francois Lake.

Stop by the Chamber of Commerce for
friendly and helpful advice
Welcome to Burns
Lake.
Stop by our Chamber
of Commerce - we are
located right beside the
Visitors
Information
Centre!
The Burns Lake and
District Chamber of
Commerce has a new
manager at the helm.
Local resident of 11
years, Laurie Reimer has
been appointed as the
new manager of the
chamber.
Reimer said she plans
Laurie Reimer
to
strengthen
the
foundation of the chamber, reinforcing it’s presence in
the community.
“The main problem with the chamber was the lack of
involvement amongst the businesses .... the chamber lost
its presence in the community,” Reimer said, adding that
this is one of the ﬁrst things on her ‘to do’ list.
She said she plans to maximize the chamber’s presence
by visiting businesses, telling them why membership is

beneﬁcial and encouraging them to sign on.
“We are going to make the chamber’s presence known,”
she added.
Reimer also has other goals for the chamber to achieve
this year including the trade show, hosting the ﬁrst annual
Businesses Excellence Awards, ensuring a successful Canada
Day event and the chamber’s Annual General Meeting.
“We want to make the Businesses Excellence Awards not
only an annual event, but ‘the’ event .... we want to make
the awards a signiﬁcant event for the businesses,” she
said.
Reimer previously worked at the Lakes Economic
Development Association as a proposal writer, but she
said has completed an applied business technology course
at the College of New Caledonia Lakes District Campus
which has given her the skills for the new role as chamber
manager.
By the end of this year Reimer said she believes the
chamber will have a stronger presence in the community,
there will be an increase in membership and businesses
will know who to contact for information.
“The chamber will have more stability .... a strong chamber
needs a strong community and this is what we are trying
to build upon,” she added.
For more information call us at 250-692-3773 or email us
at bldcoc@telus.net

urns Lake has a long and
fascinating history. While First
Nations had long inhabited the
area before the arrival of any nonnatives, European settlers came
here during the 19th century.
Settlers were brought to the area
by the construction of the Collins
overland telegraph line. In fact,
the engineer responsible for the
telegraph trail, American-born
Charles Bulkley, was the ¿rst
non-native man to settle in Burns
Lake. This line connected Fraser
Lake to Burns Lake and Decker
Lake, down the Bulkley River to
Hazelton and then up the Kispiox
River into the Yukon.
Further settlement followed with the construction of the
Grand Trunk Paci¿c Railway, which was built through the
area en route Edmonton to Prince Rupert.
The building of the railway provided easier access for
settlers and quickly resulted in numerous new arrivals to the
area. Among the new arrivals were prospectors in search of
minerals and a small mining operation was quickly started.
Completion of the railroad in 1914 further opened up the area
to development. The railroad created a demand for railroad
ties and increased access to the area allowing mining and
forestry to develop. This resulted in the commencement of
commercial forestry activities in the region, attracting many
permanent settlers.
Over the years, settlers continued to arrive which reached

another high in the early 1950’s,
when the Aluminum Company
of Canada (Alcan) started the
construction of an aluminum
smelter in Kitimat.
However, the man credited for
founding Burns Lake is Barney
Mulvaney. Mulvaney started a
tent town, which evolved over the
years to become the Village of
Burns Lake.
Barney is considered one of
Burns Lake’s most prominent and
colorful historical ¿gures. He was
a saloon, gambling den owner and
operator, enterprising trapper and
packer, and mail and passenger
service operator.
The gambling den seen here is known locally as the Bucket
of Blood. The building was given its sinister name after a
shooting incident took place over a poker game.
The building still stands today and is part of the Burns Lake
Walking Tour featuring Heritage Buildings and Points of
Interests.
To learn more about Barney Mulvaney visit the Burns Lake
Museum. In fact, a visit to the museum provides the best
way to gain an understanding and appreciation of the
unique and vibrant history of Burns Lake.
The museum is conveniently located on Hwy. 16 next to the
Visitors’ Information Centre.
For more information contact the Lakes District Museum at
250-692-7450. Hours are 9 am to 4:30 pm Mon to Fri.
Bucket of Blood

Take the free ferry to the southside
F

rom Burns Lake turn south onto Hwy. #35 and travel to the community of Francois Lake. Take the free, 20-minute ferry
ride across Francois Lake to the community of Southbank.

Francois Lake Ferry Schedule
Daily - All times are Paci¿c Time

*School Sailings (not applicable July and August)

Francois Lake Ferry

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Page 13

Lakes Economic Development
Association (LEDA)

Minerals North 2012 is coming to Burns Lake
LEDA is excited about the opportunity for diversiﬁcation
with the mining exploration and activities in the area.
We will be hosting Minerals North 2012 Conference
May 23 - 25, 2012
Stop by the Visitor Info Centre to ﬁnd out what attractions
Burns Lake & area has to offer.
We are open 9 – 5, Monday
through Friday and 7 days
a week in July and August.
We can answer all your
questions regarding events,
accommodations, camping,
hiking, ﬁshing and so much more.
We have free maps and brochures
of local hiking trails as well as
a variety of resorts, lakes and
towns – locally and throughout
British Columbia.
Make sure to ask about upcoming
events throughout the summer.
We look forward to helping you
make your stay here memorable.

“LEDA is a non-proﬁt community based society developed as an organization to be a catalyst
for strengthening and diversifying the local economy.
LEDA acts strategic by nature; promoting change with long-term sustainability;
increasing community involvement, capacity and empowerment, and to strive for economic,
environmental, social and cultural balance.”
Lakes Economic Development Association (LEDA)
540 Hwy 16, Box 808 Burns Lake, BC • Ph: 250/692-3700 • Fax: 250/692-3701
Email : edo@lakesdistrict.com OR info@lakesdistrict.com

port ¿shing has long been
part of Burns Lake’s heritage
and is a tradition that continues
to today. Every year, both locals
and visitors take advantage of
the Lakes District’s 3000 miles of
¿shing opportunity making it one of
the greatest ¿shing destinations in
British Columbia.
Lakes in the area support
populations of prize winning
char, kokanee, as well as trophy
cutthroat, rainbow, and eastern
brook trout. Anglers will agree, this
is sport ¿shing at its ¿nest.
The excitement of hooking a 42
pound char in Tchesinkut Lake
will certainly bring you back to
the Lakes District year after year.
Tchesinkut Lake is one of the purest
water sources in BC. This lake has
plenty of rainbow trout, kokanee and Dolly Varden.
Maxan, Tagetochlain (Poplar), Uncha, Burns, Pinkut, Augier,
and Taltapin lakes also support healthy populations of char.
For years, anglers have coined the Lakes District as its
ultimate trout-¿shing destination, with almost all of its lakes
teeming with cutthroat, rainbow or eastern book trout.
In fact, Babine Lake can claim the title of the most popular
¿shing lakes in the province. Fly ¿sherman Àock to the lakes
to get their change at catching one of its large cutthroat and
rainbow trout. If Ày-¿shing isn’t what you were aiming for,

trolling for lake char and kokanee is
another option.
Babine Lake is also spawning area
for salmon and the months of August
and September are the best times
to view this natural phenomenon.
Anglers can ¿nd accommodations in
the Village of Burns Lake, which is
a central location and provides easy
access to the lakes as well as all of
your ¿shing needs. Those wanting
to experience the serenity of the
lakes 24/7 can ¿nd it at one of many
lakeside lodges in the area, which
cater to all your ¿shing needs.
On June 20, be sure to enter the
Fathers’ Day Fishing Derby on
Babine Lake or Takysie Lake.
Burns Lake is abundant with trout
and char, which can be caught
throughout summer and ling cod.
Joined to Burns Lake by the Endako river is Decker Lake,
which is located approximately one mile west of Burns
Lake.
Francois Lake is 120 km. (75 mi.) long, making it the largest
natural lake in the district. Hwy. #35, south of Burns Lake
takes you to Francois Lake and the ¿shing grounds. A short
free ferry ride crosses Francois Lake to Southbank and
beyond to Uncha, Takysie, and Ootsa Lake.
Babine Lake is situated north of Burns Lake. It can be
accessed by driving 34 km on Babine Lake road or by
traveling west of Burns Lake on Hwy. #16 and turning off
towards Granisle. Babine Lake is 177 km (110 mi.) long,
making it British Columbia’s longest natural lake. Mountains
and beautiful scenery surround Babine Lake, while the
shoreline is dotted with secluded sandy beaches.
Uncha Lake produces rainbow trout up to three pounds and
large char. It is located 14 km from the ferry on the Southside.
Uncha is located approximately 40 km. (25 mi.) south of the
town of Burns Lake From Burns Lake turn south onto Hwy.
#35 and travel to the community of Francois Lake. Take
the free, 20-minute ferry ride across Francois Lake to the
community of Southbank. From the ferry dock at Southbank
turn left and follow the main road heading southeast to the
lake. The roads are well marked.
Decker Lake supports mainly coarse ¿sh, but is also home
to a small population of kokanee and trout.
Maxan Lake is located west of Burns Lake and can be
accessed by many secondary roads leading south off Hwy.
#16. This lake teems with rainbow trout and char from spring
through fall.
Continued on page 15

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Page 15

Take advantage of the Lakes District’s
3000 miles of ﬁshing
Bulkley and Day Lakes are located
on the western end of the Lakes Forest
District and supports a population of
rainbow trout.
Richmond Lake provides good ¿shing
for rainbow trout in spring. This lake
can be reached via Priestly Road,
32 kilometers east of Burns Lake on
Highway 16.
Co-op Lake is located east of the town
of Burns Lake on Highway 16, with
a 5-kilometre drive on a good gravel
road. This lake supports a population
of Eastern brook trout and is known for
excellent ice ¿shing during winter.
Tagetochlain (Poplar) Lake provides
trough up to three pounds and char up
to 25 pounds. The Lake is about 1.6 km
off the Tahtsa Access road on another
good gravel road.
Tchesinkut Lake is located 16 km south
of Burns Lake on Highway 35. It is known for its kokanee and rainbow trout,
which can weigh up to four pounds, and char up to 42 pounds.
Binta Lake supports very ¿ne char (up to 35 pounds) and trout ¿shing. This
lake is accessible by road, approximately ¿ve km from Uncha Lake.
Takysie Lake is approximately 48 km south of Burns Lake in the Grassy
Plains area. This lake produces rainbow trout up to ten pounds.
Ootsa Lake is part of the Alcan reservoir and considered the gateway
to Tweedsmuir Park. This enormous lake offers good ¿shing for up
to 10-pound rainbow trout. A large boat is recommended because of
winds and dif¿cult access to the shoreline due to underwater obstacles.
There is a huge ¿shing derby held every Labour Day long weekend on this
lake.
Pinkut Lake is situated approximately 24 km from Burns Lake on the Babine
Lake road. This lake has good trout and char ¿shing with trout weighing in
around two pounds.
Augier Lake is approximately 19 km long and situated 32 km northwest
of Burns Lake, via Babine Lake road. Augier Lake provides good char and
trout ¿shing. Augier is located approximately 40 km. (25 mi.) North of the
town of Burns Lake, in-between Pinkut and Babine Lake. Follow the Babine
Lake Road north off Hwy. # 16. A few miles past Pinkut Lake you will turn
east (right) off the road to Babine Lake onto a well-marked, good gravel
road.
Taltapin Lake is located 38 km north of Burns Lake. It is very good for deep
char ¿shing and trout are plentiful. Taltapin Lake can be reached by driving
19 km on the Babine Lake road and 19 km on the Augier Taltapin road,
which is a good gravel logging road.
For more information on any of the lakes or camp sites in the area contact
the Burns Lake & District Chamber of Commerce at 250-692-3773.

Page 16

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

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more information.

Beaver Point Resort on Tchesinkut Lake
welcomes you to the Lakes District
W

elcome to Beaver
Point
Resort.
We are located 16 km
south of Burns Lake on
Hwy. 35.
All of our cabins, cottages
and campsites are on the
lakeshore of Tchesinkut
Lake.
Tchesinkut Lake is one of
the purest water sources
in BC. This lake has plenty
of rainbow trout, kokanee
and dolly varden.
Char can be caught and
kept in the months of July
and February.
We have one 2-bedroom log cabin,
four one-room log cabin (sleeps 4-6
persons), electric lights, fridge and
heaters, propane cookstove, dishes,
cutlery and basic cookware provided,
water tap on outside of cabin and four
one-bedroom cottages with bathroom
and kitchen (sleeps 4).
We are a family oriented campground
with 40 sites for tents or RVs, sani
dump, full and partial hookups, sites

Great Fishing!

face the lake and are within 50’ of
shore.
Water and electricity available, picnic
tables, ¿re rings, ¿rewood, wet &
dry toilets, coin operated laundry
facilities and central shower room and
bathrooms.
We offer group rates (minimum 10
sites). Campsite - no services or
partial service $20.00 per night, and
with full hook up $23.00 (30 amp
power). Weekly and long term rates
also available.
We have a marina with a boat launch
area and boat trailer storage area.
And if you don’t have your own boat
then we can supply you with boats and
motors - 14’ aluminum Lunds - 6 & 8
hp motors. We also have water bikes
and kayaks.
We offer a big parking lot for extra
vehicles, ¿sh-cleaning tables, docks

use. Other extras available are the
use of a gazebo with BBQ and kitchen
facilities at extra charge, worms and
ice.
We are open from May 15 to
September 15.
Join us in the heart of the Lakes District
of north-central British Columbia.
Your hosts Jake and Brenda Hiebert
are looking forward to seeing you this
summer.

Site – over 4000 hectares of Crown
Land - just a few minutes drive north
of town.
The area has more than 13 km of
downhill trail and over 7 km of crosscountry trail, with additional trails in
the works. The downhill trails off the
top of Boer Mountain were designed
by the world renowned Gravity Logic
team. Beginner to intermediate riders
will enjoy the trails around Kager Lake.
Kager Lake also features picturesque
walk-in camping and picnicking spots.
Burns Lake Bike Park consists of 160
acres of private land located adjacent to the Boer Mountain Recreation
Site. The park’s well-marked routes
twist around a wetland area, several
streams and a small lake. The terrain
includes a variety of cross-country and
downhill, with dif¿culty levels ranging
from beginner to advanced. Various
trails include fun and challenging features such as jumps, drops, wall rides
and boardwalks.

Dif¿culty levels are clearly marked on
the Burns Lake Bike Park Map but riders are apt to know how hard the trails
are according to their names.
Examples of the more dif¿cult tracks
include “Smells Like Bacon,” “Pork
Grind,” and “Slaughter House.” Some
of the easier ones such as “Piglet” and
“Curly Tail” are less intimidating. The
bike park also hosts a skills park for
riders to practice, and a 4-cross track.
Features include log rides, ramps,
jumps, skinnies, a pump track, and
more.
The recreation site and bike park are
managed by the local bike club – Burns
Lake Mountain Biking Association.
The club will hold the annual biking
festival – “The Big Pig” – August 1921st, 2011, which features downhill,
cross-country and 4-cross races, as
well as a jump jam.
For more information on mountain biking in the Burns Lake area visit www.
burnslaketrails.ca
5.3km

he mountain biking community in
Burns Lake is well organized and
highly active, which makes for excellent, accessible, and easy to navigate
riding trails. The main mountain biking
area is the Boer Mountain Recreation

Trails managed and maintained locally by BLMBA
in Partnership with Recreation Sites and Trails BC

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Page 19

Stop by our unique gift, souvenir
and art gallery when you’re in town
T

here is a little art gallery situated in
Burns Lake, B.C. where you are
always guaranteed to receive a warm
greeting, a smile and also ¿nd that extra
special something.
Process 4 circle arts
Gallery can be
found at 425
Yellowhead Hwy
16 and 3rd Ave.,
in downtown Burns
Lake. The gallery is
easy to ¿nd, just follow the
highway through town and you will ¿nd
Process 4 circle arts Gallery.
Owner, Wayne Brown has the gallery
fully stocked with local works of original
art such as paintings, sculptures, and
pottery.
The Lakes District is home to some
wonderful artists and Process 4 circle arts
Gallery is a one stop shop to immerse
yourself in the talent of local artists and
to also take a little piece of Burns Lake
home with you.
Process 4 Gallery also provides a picture
framing service and can frame your work
of art in a variety of colours
and framing styles to suit
any decor and budget.
Wayne custom frames
the art works on display
right on the premises of
Process 4 Gallery.
If you are looking for
an original gift for that
special someone, or
just looking to purchase

something that is unique, the shelves in
Process 4 Gallery offer an abundance of
choices.
From sachets of decadent hot
chocolate mixes,
a
selection
of
Fair Trade
coffees,
ancient
South
American
herbal teas,
Yerba Mate,
CD compilations
to relax your mind, body and
soul, books to warm your heart, beautiful
gift cards and distinctive pottery for
that one of a kind
gift that just can
not be purchased
a n y w h e r e
else
in
town,
jewellery,
intricate
silver
tableware
in
native
designs.

Process 4 circle arts Gallery is your
destination.
For those that value the purchase of
something that is exceptional and not
commonplace, for the lovers of ¿ne art,
and for the lovers of decadent treats to
spoil yourself or the one you love there is
no better place than Process 4 circle arts
Gallery.
Come in and visit
Wayne, look around,
who knows what you
may ¿nd.
Process 4 circle arts Gallery
has something for everyone,
the little gallery with big choices
in the centre of Burns Lake.

f you are a antique lover - this should be the ¿rst place you
stop at.
Kelli and Kevin Payne are the owners of Homeside Antiques.
And Kelli has been interested in antiques since she was 20,
a love she inherited from her mother, who in turn got the ‘bug’
from her father.
“We’re all collectiques,” she laughs.
And just recently added another very special and unique
treasure to their antique collection.
The Payne’s purchased a 132 year old horse drawn hearse
in September of this year.
The hearse was built in 1878 by McGinnis Bros. Carpentry.
Only ¿ve of the hearses were built by the carpentry company
and the Paynes hearse was the ¿fth and ¿nal one ever
made.
According to Kevin, the ¿ve hearses were built for funeral
homes on Prince Edward Island.
The hearse was built to by drawn by a single horse and still
has its original curtains intact. The silk curtains, although not
currently attached to the hearse are in good condition and
are currently in the process of being carefully washed to be
re-installed.
“The curtains were originally nailed on to the inside of the
hearse ... there were no curtain rods,” said Kelli.
When hearse number ¿ve was no longer used for funeral
services it was retired into the Spoke and Wheel museum in
Charlottetown.
“The museum closed some time in the mid 1990s as far as
we know,” Kevin said.
It was then
purchased
from the sale of
the museums
items and was
taken to its new
owners home
in Saskatoon
where it was
stored inside
until the Paynes
purchased it.
“We bought it,

then brought it home to Burns Lake in an enclosed trailer,”
said Kevin.
The Paynes plan to restore the hearse this winter by cleaning
and repainting it.
“The hearse is completely original and has all its original
¿ttings,” Kelli said.
The hearse also came complete with a ¿r casket inside.
The casket was made 37 years later in 1915 and is still in
excellent condition.
“It is an unused primitive ¿r casket,” said Kevin.
To view the hearse and casket or any other antiques and
collectables go to Homeside Antiques, located just 15 km
east of Burns Lake on Hwy. 16.
“We get people from all over the world - the United Kingdom,
Italy, Germany, France, China - some come back year after
year to see our antiques, but the wagon is what draws them,”
she says.
You will ¿nd treasures like antique lamps, pictures, dishes
- the list is endless. Homeside Antiques carries the largest
selection of antique furniture and collectibles in the area. Kelli
knows the market well and she is always in the shop to help
you one on one.
Homeside Antiques is located 15 kilometres east of Burns
Lake - you can’t miss it and you are invited to stop in.

The family run business has been
servicing the Lakes District for 33 years
and sells everything from Yahama
all terrain vehicles, snowmobiles,
outboards and generators to Stihl
products such as trimmers, chain
saws, brush saws,
leaf
b l o w e r s
a n d
sweepers.

at the events they host and is looking to
increase the club’s membership.

participating in work bees, attending
meetings,
the
Cold
Smoke Lake races and
Cold Smoke Drags as
well as fundraising for
Snowarama. Local trail systems have
also been developed through the
snowmobile club. The club is on the
lookout for more volunteers to help out

Outdoor Adventures thinks
community has a lot to offer.
They like to be involved
in local outdoor
activities
and
work to promote
snowmobiling
and 4x4ing in
the local area.
They are located at
121 Francois Lake
Road, when you
come into town
just turn left at the
Chevron and you’ll
see them on the right
hand side of the road.

They stock a full
array of oils for all the
products they carry and they service
a variety of products, so remember to
go to Outdoor Adventures to get your
outboard serviced before heading out
on the many lakes in the area this
summer.
Outdoor Adventures is supportive of
the Burns Lake Snowmobile Club,

o take in the striking scenery of the Lakes District, put
on a pair of comfortable hiking boots and head out on
one of more than two dozen trails maintained by the Lakes
Outdoor Recreation Society.

goes through a peaceful pine forest on a ridge overlooking the roaring Cheslatta River below. It winds around and
¿nally stops at the edge of a cliff directly beside Cheslatta
falls, allowing for a spectacular view. Warning: the trail can
be slippery when
wet, as well as
on the cliff by the
falls. It is not suitable or safe for
young children
or pets.
To get there from
Burns Lake take
the
Francois
Lake Ferry to the
southside, head
towards Takysie
Lake, turn left on
Eakin Settlement
Road, approx 8
Francois Lake from Nourse Creek Trailhead
km south of the
One of the most spectacular trails in the area is the Nourse Nechako Reservoir.
Creek trail. This 6.5 km trail treats hikers to the impressive Rock hounders and gem hunters will love the Shelford Opal
Nourse Creek Falls. The ¿rst falls are 1.5 km from the start Bed Trails, a 3.8 km trail that takes hikers along one of the
of the hike and the second falls can be found 3.4 km along few known opal and agate beds in British Columbia. This trail
the hike. From the parking lot, the trail winds upstream along also includes a secondary trail, the Lookout Trail. This trail
the banks above Nourse/Allin Creek. As the trail climbs into forms a short loop and winds past several stunning viewthe hills, there are great views southward over Francois points of Eagle Creek Valley, the community of Burns Lake
Lake. Along the creek there are scenic hoodoos, waterfalls and Tchesinkut Lake.
to admire and, if the weather’s right, some good swimming To get there from Burns Lake, drive south on Hwy 15 toward
holes. The trail grade is fairly gentle with just a few short Francois Lake. About 1 km south of the bridge over Burns
steep sections.
Lake turn right onto Eagle Creek Road. Follow this road for
To get there from Burns Lake, drive south on Hwy 35. Pass approximately 7 km to the recreation site on the main trailthe Francois Lake Ferry terminal and continue along the head. Junctions on the Eagle Creek Road are marked with
north shore of Francois Lake for about 15km to the Henkel directions to the Opal Bed trails.
Forest Service Road. Turn right here and drive about 1.5 If you are looking for a hike that is suitable for the whole famkm to the trail parking lot.
ily, the 2.1 km Rod Reid Nature trail, with its easy, wide,
Cheslatta Falls is another magni¿cent waterfall. A camp- level-ground path is ideal for children and seniors. The trail
ground is located about 500 meters from the trail head on circles around the astonishing Loch Lomond wetlands and
the opposite side of the road. The trail is 1.2 km long (one offers hikers a chance to examine wetland plants and obway), there are hiking diamonds on the pathway. The trail serve the area’s extraordinary birds from one of several viewing platforms. Loch Lomond is also known as Beaver Pond
since it was created by a beaver dam, which is still visible at
the mouth of the pond. It can be easily reached by driving up
8th Ave. then connecting to 9th Ave. until you reach the parking lot or by following the Eveneshen Trail from the Chamber
of Commerce on Hwy 16.
The Eveneshen Nature Trail is another easily accessible
trail in Burns Lake. This trail one km trail winds along a creek
through the heart of the Burns Lake. Hikers needing more of
a challenge can connect with the Rod Reid Nature Trail at the
end of the Eveneshen Nature Trail. This trail can be easily
accessed from the Chamber of Commerce on Highway 16.
Continued on page 25

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Page 25

Take in the scenery of the Lakes District
The Kager Lake
Trail is a 3.3 km
easy and Àat hiking
trail around Kager
Lake suitable for all
ages. Hikers can
observe some of
the area’s native
plant species in this
secondary pine and
spruce
forested
area.
There are also
picnic tables and ¿re
pits along the trail
for visitors to enjoy.
The trail proceeds
along the lake in
both
directions,
continuing around
Long Lake. There
are some secondary
Kager Lake
trails at the south
end of Kager Lake,
providing viewpoints of the surrounding area.
To get there from Burns Lake take 5th Ave. from Hwy 16
to meet up with Gowan Road. Once on Gowan Road,
continue until you reach Boer Mountain Lookout Road.
Turn left. Follow the road to the trailhead, located on the
right (Kager Lake is visible from the road). You will pass
the Burns Lake Mountain Bike Park on the way to Kager
Lake.
Star Lake Trail is located further up Boer Mountain Road,
near the top lookout. It’s 1 km down to the lake and a
4.5 km loop around the lake. Easy to moderate trail with
some steep sections on descent to Star Lake. There are
unmanaged tenting areas on both the north and south
ends of Star Lake.
To get there follow the above
directions for Kager Lake but keep
going past Kager Lake, almost to
the top of Boer Mountain.
The Lakes District is not only
home to the smallest provincial
park, Deadman’s Island in Burns
Lake, but also one of the largest
protected areas, Tweedsmuir
Park. Deadman’s Island is only
accessible by boat. Tweedsmuir
Park is accessible by Àoat plane or
boat, for more information contact
the Chamber of Commerce at 250692-3773.
Tweedsmuir Park
Eagle Creek: Is a great place to

hike. Two km hike to opal/agate beds and you will get to
see a spetcaular view of Burns Lake and area.
Visitors to Burns Lake and the Lakes District area should
be aware of the bears in our region. Black bears are
common in our region and hikers are cautioned to stay
alert. It is important to make noise to alert bears of your
presence. A bear bell tied to a backpack is an easy way to
let bears know you are in the neighbourhood. Remember
to bring a can of bear spray.
Have fun hiking and be safe.
Visitors are asked not to litter and to carry out whatever
garbage they bring with them on their hike.
For more information about hiking trails in the region, visit
the Visitor’s Information Centre at 250-692-3700.

Page 26

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Page 27

Chief Louie

Paddle Company
Take a trip back in time with the legendary
Chief Louie of the Cheslatta Carrier Nation.
When you buy a Chief Louie Paddle,
you own a timeless piece of history.
You can feel the strength and
integrity of the Chief himself. You
can see the elegance of the natural
raw material that was salvaged from
the homeland of the Cheslatta
Carrier people, proudly hand carved
and finished by the descendants of
Chief Louie.

GREAT CARE AND PRIDE
When you are exploring the waters
of the north, you need equipment
that is strong, durable and very
dependable. A canoe paddle is one
of the most important tools when

LAMINATED PADDLES

model of Chief Louie Paddle.
Hand selected wood, carefully
Tests include shaft and blade shear,
stripped, fitted and glued; each
glue/joint strength, blade impact
paddle is hand carved by Pat
tests, prolonged exposure to the
Edmund, Master Carver; then is
extreme outdoor conditions, and
hand sanded and hand varnished.
even our famous “Boiling Tests”
where finished and unfinished
While the Chief Louie paddle looks
paddles were submerged in 16o
good hanging on a wall, the old man
degree water for 36 hours and
would laugh because it is made to
experienced no warping or
challenge the strongest paddler, yet
separation!!
comfortable enough to fit in the
hands of the beginner.
MOTTO
Balancing strength and light
weight, elegant, tough,
adventurous, & timeless.

Made from the community, by the
community, in the community. All
harvesting and gathering practices
adhere to the strict standards of
the Cheslatta Environmental
Stewardship Policy, assuring a
minimal human footprint and
pledging to uphold their inherent
principles of environmental
sustainability.

you are in the wilderness. You want
one that has been tried and tested in
the wilds of north British Columbia,
Canada.

We are extremely proud… We pride
ourselves on ensuring every Chief
Louie product reflect the strength
and integtiry of Chief Louie and the
Cheslatta people.

FINAL WORD FORM THE
CHESLATTA PEOPLE

MADE TO LAST

Just by using a Chief Louie paddle
assures us that you are out in nature
and enjoying the magnificent land.

Chief Louie paddles are not mass
produced. They are made one at a
time ensuring attention to detail and
quality. Each one contains a piece
of the Chief Louie himself passed
through his descendents who
create the paddles.

By making a decision to purchase
a Chief Louie paddle, you must
already possess a sense of spirit and
adventure and above all, you are one
who enjoys what The Creator has
given us. Please respect the land, the
environment and all the creatures it
supports. Teach your children the
values of good stewardship and that
we are all guests of Mother Earth.
Her water is our lifeblood.

Page 28

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Page 29

Babine Lake Resort offers you a getaway on
the longest natural fresh water lake in BC
B
abine Lake Resort is a great place
to stay and play. Situated on Babine Lake, the largest natural fresh water lake in British Columbia stretching
177 km from end to end, Babine Lake
Resort offers great ¿shing and hunting, hiking trails and wonderful scenery for budding photographers.
Rock hounds take note as deposits of
jade can also be scouted in the area
around Babine Lake Resort.

The ¿shing opportunities on Babine
Lake are second to none and is well
known for producing trophy Char,
rainbow trout and salmon.
A point of interest to avid anglers is
that Babine Lake is home to a special
strain of rainbow trout that grow much
larger than the common rainbow trout
species. Anglers should
jump at the chance of
catching ‘the big one.’
Other ¿sh that inhabit
Babine Lake are kokanee,
burbot and white¿sh, so
with all the great ¿shing opportunities why not come,
stay and drop in a line

Open stuntil
Oct. 31 /2011

Hunter’s
Welcome!
Fishing
*Sorry No
Licenses

or two.
After a great days ¿shing Babine Lake
Resort offers a number of ways to
wind down.
Rustic cabins over looking the lake
are available, equipped with kitchens
and bedding, some of which have full
bathroom facilities. There are R.V.
spaces with power and water or if you
prefer to fully immerse yourself in the
outdoors bring your own tent.
There are campsites available with
or without hookups and included with
your stay is ¿rewood, showers, sani
dumping and for the big ¿sh that didn’t
get away Babine Lake resort provides
¿sh smoking and freezers.
For those anglers that prefer to get
out in the middle of the action there
are boats available for hire from the
resort, with 10-20 hp outboards. Also
included with your rental is ¿ve gallons of gas. If you have your own boat
there are docking facilities available
with a boat ramp for launching off for
a great day out on the lake.
Babine Lake Resort is also a great
place to get away from all the hustle
and bustle, sit around a camp ¿re and
enjoy the beautiful sunsets.

Babine Lake Resort is the perfect
venue for your wedding, anniversary,
family reunion, birthday or business
event. Make your special event an
event to remember by celebrating it at
Babine Lake Resort.
To get there turn right off Hwy. 16 on
to Babine Lake Rd and turn left onto
Augier Main, turn right on to Babine
Lake Rd again and follow the road
down to the resort.
Bill and Trudy, your hosts will be happy to accommodate your every need.

s the name implies, the Lakes District and area
is known for its amazing lakes and boating
opportunities. And whether you are looking for
the calm and quiet and relaxing experience of
canoeing, kayaking, or sailing, or the adrenalin
rush of water skiing, jet boating or power boating,
you will ¿nd a lake in the Lakes District perfect for
your brand of summer fun.
The Burns Lake area offers more than 300 ¿shing
lakes between the Fraser and Skeena River
watersheds.
Be sure to bring your camera, because the Burns
Lake area offers wildlife viewing at its best. Much
of this pristine wilderness area has remained
untouched by civilization and is home to eagles
and ospreys, deer, moose, coyotes, wolves, and
bears.
Burns Lake is the largest community and service
centre for the entire Lakes District, here boaters
can ¿nd everything they need, including recreational facilities
such as a marina, boat moorage and boat launches, parks,
beaches, tennis courts, curling club, museum and hiking
trails.
Here are a few camping & boating facilities.
Augier Lake: boat launch, ¿shing, boating, canoe/kayak,
and swimming. Attractive beach and view.
Binta Lake South/North: boat launch, ¿shing, boating, and
canoe/kayak. Sheltered bay.
Colleymount: boat launch, ¿shing, and canoe/kayak.
Stocked lake.
Division Lake: boat launch, ¿shing, and canoe/kayak.
Eagle Creek: hiking. Two km hike to opal/agate beds, view
of Burns Lake and area.
Francois Lake: boat launch (cartop), ¿shing, and canoe/
kayak.
Government Point (on Francois Lake): boat launch,
¿shing, boating, and
swimming.
Guyishton Lake: boat
launch (cartop), ¿shing
and canoe/kayak. 4wd
required when wet.
Indian Bay: boat
launch (cartop), ¿shing,
boating, beach and
swimming. Located on
Francois Lake
Knapp Lake: boat
launch, ¿shing and
canoe/kayak. Windy
access, narrow road,
and slippery when
wet.
Francois Lake
Lund
Lake:
boat

he history of Burns Lake is rich in First Nations history,
culture, and legend. This is because long before the
arrival of Europeans, several distinct groups of First Nation
people inhabited the area. Today Burns Lake has six native
bands - Cheslatta Carrier Nation, Lake Babine Nation,
Burns Lake Band, Wet’suwet’en, Nee-Tahi-Buhn Band, and
Skin Tyee.
First Nations
lived in the
Lakes District
as
hunters
and gatherers.
Living from the
land, the ¿rst
inhabitants of
this land have
many traditions
that
have
carried through
today.
The
First Nations
have
always
harvested
fruits,
plants
and ¿sh for
food as well
as
medical
purposes. The
societies
of
First Nations in
this area were historically matriarchal societies. Their social
and economic structure is and has always been centered
around the potlatch, an important celebration held at major,
such as births, marriages, and deaths. Potlatches were
historically an important economic, political, and social
organization. Today, it remains an important aspect of the
First Nation culture.
Burns Lake joins annually to
celebrate this cultural heritage
during our annual Aboriginal Day.
This day is held in recognition of
the important contributions that
First Nations people have made
in our community and society.
The day kicks off with a parade,
featuring elders, dancers, and
drummers each wearing beautifully
handcrafted regalia.
The celebration then continues at
the Radley Beach, where people
from all cultural backgrounds get an
opportunity to try traditional cuisine,
such as salmon, moose and beaver
each prepared in the customary

fashions.
This event simply wouldn’t be the same without its astounding
range of traditional and contemporary entertainers. Anything
from country, to gospel, to traditional drumming can be
enjoyed and help to keep the party going.
The gathering also includes a range of fun and traditional
games, such as leg wrestling, snowshoe races, an ice
cream contest and stick-pull. The craft booths are open all
day, selling a range of one-of-a-kind handicrafts, such as
jewelry, clothing, and artifacts.
If you are in the area on June 21, be sure to join the
celebration and learn more about these important native
cultural groups in our area.

Nadina Lake Lodge... nature at its best
awaits you with welcoming hosts
N

adina Lake Lodge is the perfect place to
get away from it all. With no other lodges
or inhabitants nearby this is your opportunity
to really unwind.
Situated on Nadina Lake, south of Houston,
British Columbia, Nadina Lake Lodge sits
nestled near the base of the picturesque
Sibola Mountain Range and offers the
beauty of the Canadian wilderness at your
doorstep.
Nadina Lake offers world class ¿shing
opportunities with wild rainbow trout up to 12
pounds in size, dolly varden, bull trout and
kokanee salmon are all on offer so come and
try your hand at
landing the big
one.
Nadina
Lake
covers an area
of eight miles
so there are
plenty of ¿shing
opportunities for avid anglers.
Nadina Lake Lodge offers boat
rentals and a boat launch.
Fly ¿shing, river ¿shing,
trolling, spin casting, lake
¿shing or Àoat tubing are all
permitted on Nadina Lake so
why not drop in a line or two.
Hunters take note as there are
black bear, grizzly bear, wolf,
moose, ptarmigan, mule deer,
goat and grouse in abundance
in the area around the lodge.
Stay in one of the lodge’s
cabins or bring your own RV.
Outdoor plumbing with the
cleanest biffys you’ve ever

seen! Showers are included, every couple of days.
Nadina Lake Lodge also offers a variety of activities for
those that love to play. Swimming in the lake, canoeing,
mountain biking, hiking the trails, and kayaking are all
on offer.
Pets are welcome at Nadina Lake Lodge so no family
member has to miss out on a great vacation.
Anglers, Hunters or people just wanting to get away from
it all need look no further than Nadina Lake Lodge.
The lodge is open from June 1 to October 31 and is
accessible by vehicle, Àoat Ày-in and helicopter. The fun
and beauty of Nadina Lake Lodge is at your ¿ngertips...
and you have the invitation to stay and play.
Just turn off Hwy. 16 onto Morice River Forest Service
Rd., once on the Morice River F.S. road follow to km
56.5. Turn right on to the Nadina F.S. road. Follow to km
74, turn right. Follow the signs to the lodge (km 25.5 on
the Thatsa F.S. road).

Nadina Lake Lodge
• CABINS
• CAMPING
• BOAT/MOTOR RENTAL
st

• CANOE RENTAL
• BIG FISH
• BIG SMILES
st

Open June 1 until October 31

Brad & Wendy Thompson

Phone: 250.697.2355
Box 99, Granisle, BC V0J 1W0

Email: nadinalakelodge@hotmail.com

~ Trophy Rainbow Fishing ~ Exceptional Scenery & Wildlife Viewing ~

Page 34

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Moosehorn Lodge on Uncha Lake
offers outdoor adventure at its best!
M

oosehorn Lodge situated along
beautiful Uncha Lake in Northern
British Columbia is the perfect place
to plan your next vacation. The lodge
offers outdoor adventures at their
best.
Moosehorn Lodge, positioned on
pristine Uncha Lake is well known for
its great ¿shing opportunities where
Char up to 40 lb. in size inhabit the
lake alongside rainbow trout.
There is a boat rental service, a boat
launch and also bait and ¿shing
gear for those that love to spend a
day out on the lake ¿shing, or if you
prefer, hire a boat simply for relaxing
and exploring, the choice is yours.
There is a ¿sh cleaning station and a
freezer on offer when you return with
your catch of the day. If you need a
¿shing licence, Moosehorn Lodge
can arrange that too.
Moosehorn Lodge offers a variety
of ways to stay and play, including
cabin rentals, camping areas and
RV hookups. There is ¿shing, game
hunting or relaxing, your activity
schedule is completely up to you.
The lodge is the perfect place to bring
your family. There are large grassy
play areas to play frisbee, kick a ball
or have a BBQ lunch on the BBQ
grills. If you prefer have a relaxing
picnic, there is a covered picnic
building. The main lodge offers the
true ‘lodge’ experience. The unique
rustic log cabins are serviced with

a kitchen area, so you can cook for
yourself if you prefer. Cabins come
equipped with outdoor parking, a
private bathroom and roll aways. Sit
back relax and enjoy the wonderful
views of Uncha Lake from the natural
setting.
If you prefer the outdoors experience
you should camp at Moosehorn
Lodge. There are electrical hook-ups
and water hook-ups. The lodge also
offers ¿rewood. Parking for campers
is also available. There are basic store
supplies, self serve laundry facilities,
showers and sani dumping and Àush
and non Àush toilets available for
use.
The campground is opened from May
to October and pets are allowed. To get
there turn off Hwy. 16 on to Francois
Lake Rd, turn right onto Hwy. 35 and
travel 23 km south of Burns Lake to
the free ferry service. Once on the

For more information
or speci¿c dates on
any of the events listed
above please contact
the Burns Lake &
District Chamber of
Commerce at
250-692-3773.

Page 35

Welcome to
Burns Lake...
Stop by and
see us in the
Lakeview
Mall...
Everything is
made from
scratch with
only the best
ingredients.

Also:
European Style
Bread and
Pastries
Organic Bread

ODLAND
O
W KERY
BA
Lakeview Mall, Burns Lake
Canada Day

250-692-7033

Page 36

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Join us in September for the Fall Fair!

H

owdy friends & neighbours! It’s that time of year and
before you know it another great Fall Fair will be upon
us again.
2011 bring us to the 68th annual to be held on September
9, 10 and 11.
There is so much going on Fall Fair weekend - heavy horse
pulls, stage entertainment, children’s activities, the exhibit
hall, petting zoo, 4-H auction, barnyard olympics, dog show,

Grassy Plains Hall
Annual Events
Annual Mud Bog
The Mud Bog is held at Grassy Plains Community
Hall grounds every May long weekend. The event
takes place rain or shine and is complete with
announcer and concession. Further information
call Kent Lambert 250-694-3748.

Annual Blue Grass Country
Jamboree
The Blue Grass Jamboree is held in July each
year with performers participating from all over the
province. It is a three day event, usually Friday,
Saturday & Sunday. There is rough camping on
the grounds and also camping facilities at many
local resorts in the area. For more information
contact Richard Cannon 250-699-8697.

Lakes District Team Penning
The Lakes District Team Penning Association holds
their weekly cattle penning event every Saturday
at 4:00 p.m. at Grassy Plains Hall. This continues
through out the summer from June through
September. Spectators are always welcome to
this interesting event. For more information please
contact Don Baker 250-694-3525.

crafts, farmer’s market,
etc.
These are just some
of the events one will
experience if you attend
the Lakes District Fall
Fair.
Also there will be a
pet show, teen dance,
bon¿re, youth tractor
pull, Fall Fair Idol,
barnyard
Olympics,
4-H achievement show,
children/teen
fun
&
games, logger’s sports,
pancake
Breakfast,
Saturday family dance
and much, much more!!
Concessions
will
tantalize your tastebuds
if you’re feeling hungry
along with the pancake breakfast on both days.
The Saturday BBQ dinner is fun for all. So mark September
on your calendar and support your local fair.
You won’t be disappointed and we hope to see you there!

Berries abound
The following are just a few of the many edible plants that grow in
the Lakes District. The June berry or Saskatoon is one of the better
known edible plants found in this region, which is not surprising
since it has some of the most delicious fruit of any of the wild
berries in the province.
The Saskatoon is a bush with light grey bark. Its leaves are round/
oblong and the fruit is usually very
dark purple that grows in small
bunches.
This bush can be found by the side
of the roads, or on moist slopes.
Another popular berry of this area
is the Twin-leaved Huckleberry or
Mountain Bilberry.
The Huckleberry appears to be a
coarse dense bush. The branches
are grey and ragged looking, and
the leaves are elongated and pale
underneath. The fruit is dark purple, almost black, that prows
singly and has a Àattened appearance when mature.
Huckleberries like open forest slopes, and old burns or ski slopes
are good places to ¿nd them.
No matter how careful hikers are they probably cannot avoid
stepping on Kinnikinik during their travels.
This dense shrub covers dry, sandy slopes and rocky areas. It has
bright green leathery leaves and red berries.

Explore Burns Lake & the Lakes District - Summer 2011

Page 37

Keefe’s Landing Cafe & Store
Come and Taste the Homemade Difference
D

riving south from Burns Lake
on Highway 35 you will come to
Francois Lake. Board the free ferry
that will take you on a leisurely cruise
across the lake to Southbank. As
you disembark you will see Keefe’s
Landing Cafe & Convenience Store.
Let us be the ¿rst to welcome you
to the “Southside” as the area is referred to. The Southside is nestled in
a land of lakes with fantastic ¿shing,
great opportunities to view birds and
wildlife, and a place ¿lled with fun for
the whole family.
Keefe’s Landing Cafe is the place
to visit for delicious food, a homey atmosphere and friendly
service. Our full menu includes
our famous homemade burgers,
buns and fries. We have hard ice
cream and milkshakes in a variety
of Àavours. If you like pizza come
try the best in the neighbourhood.
This is the only place in the area
to enjoy a good cup of coffee for
only a $1.00. You can eat in or
out on our deck while enjoying a
great view of the lake. We also offer take out and senior’s and children’s portions are available upon
request. During the cooler weather we offer a daily home-made
soup to take the chill off. Whether
having breakfast, lunch or dinner
we guarantee you will enjoy it. We
will also cater for small meetings.

Our convenience store stocks
most of the basics and is a great place to stop for a variety of snacks and cold drinks. We also sell pre-paid phone
cards and stamps. Our regular post of¿ce hours are Mon-

day, Wednesday and Friday from 9am – 5pm.
We are the only lottery dealer on the Southside. You can
purchase tickets for all major lotteries, buy an array of different scratch tickets or sit in our cafe and play Keno while
enjoying a snack or meal.
The Southside is a great place for a relaxing day trip. For
those who want to visit longer the Southside has an accommodation to meet every need be it a campground, a resort
or a B & B. While on the Southside visit the indoor Farmer’s
Market held May to October in the visitor’s centre across
from the cafe, take part in a ¿shing derby or enjoy many of
the other fun activities that happen throughout the year.
Whatever
your
plans
make Keefe’s
Landing Cafe
&
Convenience
a
must stop on
your Southside adventure... come
and enjoy our
hospitality.

Keefe’s Landing Café & Convenience Store
Join us for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner!
Home
of the
$

ocated 49 km North of Topley on
Highway 118, Granisle overlooks
beautiful Babine Lake; the longest
natural fresh water lake in British
Columbia.
The Village is accessible by the only
paved road into Babine Lake and has a
marina with moorage slips, a concrete
boat launch, day use picnic areas on
the beach, Copperview Park in the
centre of town and a Visitor Information
Centre with laundry, washroom and
shower facilities, as well as a sanidump. Accommodation, gasoline, and
groceries are available in Granisle.
Volcanoes, mammoths, trading posts,
pictographs, mining for gold, silver and
copper - this area is as rich in history
as it is in natural beauty.
Many visitors catch a glimpse of
moose, deer, bear, fox, coyote, wolf,
eagle, geese and ducks - so bring your
camera along! Whether your interests
lay in hiking, ¿shing, boating, camping
or just relaxing - our area is waiting for
you.

The
largest
S o c k e y e ,
S p a w n i n g
Channels in the
world are located
within 10 kms of
Granisle.
The
Sockeye
return to spawn in
late August, early
September and
the river mouth
runs red with ¿sh.
Also within a 10
km radius you
will ¿nd Red Bluff
Provincial Park which is maintained by
the Village of Granisle (reservations
available through the Village of
Granisle Of¿ce), small lakes and nonserviced campgrounds, restaurant,
pub, full service campgrounds, and
an extremely rustic 9- hole, par 3 golf
course.
Mountains and beautiful scenery
surround Babine Lake, while the
shoreline is dotted with secluded
sandy beaches.
Fly ¿sherman Àock to the lake to get
their chance at catching one of its
large cutthroat and rainbow trout. If Ày¿shing isn’t
what
you
were aiming
for, trolling
for lake char
and kokanee
is another
option.

Events in our area include...
• A Father’s Day Weekend Fishing
Derby in June
• Summer Curling Bonspiel in June
• Canada Day Celebrations July 1st
• Granisle Days
• H2O Drags in July
• Summer Festival at Tachet in
August
• Sockeye Days on the Labour Day
Weekend in September.

Laid-back Living on the Lakeshore
Visit our website at www.granisle.net give us a call at the Village of Granisle Office 250-697-2248
or the Granisle Tourism Information Centre at 250-697-2428 or email the Village Office at bandersson@villageofgranisle.ca

TAKYSIE LAKE
“The Lake of Many Jumping Fish”
Your Hosts, David and Rise’ Gruen welcome you to their little slice of paradise...

T

akysie Lake has long been a
family favourite for everyone
from locals to Europeans. Whether
you are camping, RV’ing or need
accommodations, you can ¿nd it all at
Takysie Lake Resort. We invite you
to enjoy this beautiful part of British
Columbia and have an experience that
will keep you coming back year after
year like so many of our “regulars”!
Takysie Lake is the perfect area for
anyone who enjoys the outdoors.
Get in some ¿shing time, snap some
pictures of the eagles or ospreys, or
take a boat ride to catch a glimpse of
a moose on the island, all the while
listening to the loons that return here
every year. This is where you go to
relax. Are you visiting during hunting
season? This is the place to be.
While staying with us, take a day
trip and explore one of the many
surrounding lakes which also boast
great ¿shing and wildlife viewing
opportunities. The chances of seeing
black bears, mule and white tail deer,
moose, foxes, coyotes and countless
birds are very good as you travel our
back roads.
We have everything you need here:
Full suites, large main lodge, rustic
lakeside summer cabins, RV/Tent
sites, Sani-Dump station, guest
docks, boat launch, as well as Àoat
plane docking, boat, canoe and pedal
boat rentals, and laundry facilities.
Did you forget something? We have
you covered with a Licensed Café,

General Store, Liquor Store, ATM,
¿reworks, oil products, gas and diesel,
auto and cylinder propane, ¿shing and
hunting licenses, retail stamp shop,
live bait, tackle, local artwork and gifts
– you name it – we most likely have
it! And don’t forget to ask for some
¿shing advice – it’s always on the
house. We offer you everything you
need for a great holiday getaway!
For your convenience, we accept
VISA, M/C, Debit, traveler’s cheques
and cash.
We look forward to your visit to
Takysie Lake! This is where the ¿sh
are always jumping, the coffee is
always hot, and the smiles are on the
house!
TAKYSIE LAKE RESORT is your
destination vacation resort. Go south
from Burns Lake and take a spectacular
free ferry ride across Francois Lake.
Then continue straight ahead for 23
km along a scenic paved highway right
to our front door and the shores of
Takysie Lake.

TAKYSIE LAKE RESORT
The Destination Vacation Spot of the Lakes District